Evidence for complex motor sequencing in pre-human hominins

Dr James Steele, Institute of Archaeology, University College London
Dr Dietrich Stout, Institute of Archaeology, University College London

Start: 01/ 10/2006 End: 30/09/2009

Objective

To develop a new explanatory framework for inferring hominin cognitive functioning from archaeological and paleontological evidence.

Activities

(1) Two empirical studies will be carried out to contextualise fossil and archaeological evidence of language evolution. One study will focus on variability in hominoid hyoid bone dimensions, and the other will focus on asymmetry in Palaeolithic stone tools deriving from handed use-wear.

(2) An international workshop will be held in Year Three to assess current research in archaeology and palaeoanthropology on sequencing models of tool production and use, and on the paleontology of speech. This will include a review of the evolutionary significance of human cognitive laterality and handedness.